Sawan Evening Adorned with Rhythmic Percussion and Kathak Ballet

Udaipur,– The two-day ‘Malhar’ classical festival, hosted by the West Zone Cultural Centre (WZCC), Udaipur, commenced on Saturday evening with a blend of rhythm and grace, captivating classical art lovers at Darpan Auditorium, Shilpgram. The program featured a brilliant ‘Taal Vadya Kachahari’ by renowned musician Muzaffar Rehman and a spellbinding Kathak ballet titled “Krishna – The Saviour” by Maya Kulshreshtha.

The inaugural lamp-lighting ceremony was graced by Shraddha Murdia, Founder of Kashti Foundation, WZCC Director Furkan Khan, Deputy Director (Programs) Pawan Amarawat, Assistant Director (Finance) Durgesh Chandwani, along with the performing artists.

WZCC Director Furkan Khan announced that on Sunday, the festival will present Pt. Subhash Ghosh with his special classical instruments Sarasvani and Swar Ragini, followed by an Odissi dance performance by Vani Madhav. Entry to the event remains free of charge.

Rehman’s Rhythmic Mastery with Percussion Ensemble Wins Hearts

The evening opened with Muzaffar Rehman’s Taal Vadya Kachahari, a rhythmic confluence of membranophone instruments like pakhawaj, nagara, dholak, tabla, along with sarangi and harmonium. The packed auditorium resounded with applause as Rehman’s ensemble performed intricate peshkar, kayda, ghoomar ang kayda, rela, gat, and chakkardar compositions. The presentation shifted seamlessly between vilambit (slow) and drut (fast) tempo, leaving a lasting impression.

Rehman, known for his international acclaim and strong YouTube following with over a lakh views, delivered an exceptional performance highlighting Indian percussion’s depth and beauty.

“Krishna – The Saviour”: Maya's Ballet Answers Spiritual Questions Through Dance

Maya Kulshreshtha’s Kathak ballet brought to life the profound, spiritual connections between Lord Krishna and the women central to his life—Radha, Rukmini, Draupadi, and Meera. Through expressive dance, Maya portrayed Krishna not as a romantic figure, but as a protector of dignity, strength, and devotion.

Iconic moments such as Krishna turning poison into nectar for Meera, saving Draupadi during her disrobing in the Kaurava court, and the symbolism of leaving his flute behind with Radha were emotionally moving. The ballet also included a visual representation of the Bhagavad Gita teachings to Arjuna on the battlefield.

The final act on Raag Malhar, set to a three-beat cycle, received thunderous applause. Maya Kulshreshtha penned all the compositions herself, blending ancient Kathak syllables and movements with thoughtful storytelling.

Contributors and Hosts

Performers included Brijesh Kumari, Neha Mahawar, Nandini Kumar, and Kriti Rathore, alongside Maya. The evening concluded with the felicitation of all artists. The program was anchored by Mohita Dixit.